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Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is the kind of dog that grabs attention wherever it goes. With its long ears, calm expression, and clumsy charm, it quickly wins over everyone nearby.

Besides being absolutely adorable, this breed has a calm and affectionate temperament, making it an excellent companion for families and people looking for a loyal and loving friend.

Official Name: Basset Hound
Other Names: Hush Puppy Dog
Origins: Great Britain
Drooling Tendency:
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Level of hair loss:
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Care needs:
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Tendencies to bark:
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Compatibility with other pets:
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Energy level:
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Suitable for living in apartments:
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Can it be alone:
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Family pet:
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Sociable with other animals:
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Cold weather:
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Hot weather:
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Male

Height:
12 to 15 Inches
Weight:
50 to 65 Pounds
Puppy age:
0 to 6 Months
Adulthood:
1 to 7 Years
Elderly age
10 Years and Older
Baby age:
0 to 1 Year

Female

Height:
11 to 14 Inches
Weight:
45 to 60 Pounds
Mature age:
7 to 10 Years
Coat:
Short Coat
Size:
Medium
Life expectancy:
10 to 12 years
basset-hound-temperament

Everything you need to know about the breed

The Basset Hound is a dog full of personality! With its short body and huge ears, it might look lazy, but don’t be fooled. This breed is incredibly determined, especially when it comes to following scents—their sense of smell is powerful! So don’t be surprised if your Basset decides to track a scent for hours during walks.

They are also perfect for those who love plenty of affection, as they adore being close to their humans. Get ready for a lot of couch time with your furry friend always by your side. One thing to note: Bassets tend to gain weight, so a balanced diet and daily walks are essential to keep them healthy and happy.

On top of that, they have a pretty fun personality, with that clumsy charm that wins anyone over. Even on their laziest days, they can make you laugh with their unique expressions and funny behavior.

Facts About This Breed

Stubborn Yet Lovable:

Basset Hound is famous for their stubbornness, but their loving nature makes up for it. They are known to form strong bonds with their families.

Superior Scenting Ability:

These dogs are second only to the Bloodhound when it comes to scenting abilities. Their exceptional nose makes them excellent at tracking.

Distinctive Bark:

Basset Hounds have a deep, resonant bark that they love to use. This makes them great watchdogs but can be a bit much for some owners.

Long Ears and Droopy Skin:

Their iconic long ears are not just for show; they help sweep scent toward their powerful nose. The droopy skin around their face helps trap scent particles.

Prone to Obesity:

Due to their laid-back nature, Basset Hounds can easily become overweight if not provided with enough exercise. Watching their diet is crucial.

Family-Friendly:

Known for their gentle and friendly disposition, Basset Hounds are great with children and other pets.

Health Concerns:

They are prone to specific health issues like ear infections, hip dysplasia, and obesity. Regular vet check-ups and attention to their ears and weight can mitigate these issues
basset-hound-puppies

History of the Breed

The origin of the Basset Hound traces back to France, where they were bred by nobles to hunt small animals like rabbits and hares. The word "Basset" comes from the French "bas," meaning "low," referring to their short legs and low-to-the-ground body, perfect for tracking prey in difficult terrains.

Although developed in France, Basset Hounds gained popularity in England in the 19th century, where they were further crossbred to refine their characteristics. They became highly respected hunting dogs, not only for their keen sense of smell but also for their ability to work for long periods without tiring.

Over the years, the Basset Hound transitioned from being just a hunting dog to becoming a beloved companion. Their calm nature and distinctive appearance won over homes worldwide, making them a favorite among dog lovers.
basset-hound-training

Canine Anatomy

Ears:

Long, low-set, exceeding the tip of the nose when stretched.
Head:

Large, dome-shaped with a pronounced occipital bone and skin folds.
Body:

Stocky, with a long back and short legs. Deep chest with well-sprung ribs.
Coat:

Short, smooth, close, and not overly fine. Grooming involves regular brushing.
Tail:

Long, slightly curved held high, often slightly curved like a saber when active
basset-hound-characteristics

Things to Take Into Consideration

  • Moderate exercise needs: The Basset Hound is not the most active dog, but it still requires daily walks to avoid weight gain and maintain good health. However, they tire easily, so intense exercise is not necessary;
  • Proper nutrition: Since they love to eat, Bassets have a strong predisposition to gain weight. Therefore, it's essential to control their diet and not give in to all their begging for treats;
  • Stubbornness and training: The Basset Hound is known for its stubbornness, which can make training challenging. Patience and consistency are key to teaching commands and good manners;
  • Ear care needs: Their long ears, which are a trademark of the breed, require special attention. They should be cleaned regularly to prevent infections and dirt buildup;
  • Constant companionship: Bassets are extremely attached to their owners. If you're looking for a dog that will always be by your side, the Basset is ideal, but they can experience loneliness if left alone for long periods;

Care for Your dog

Cleaning, Training, and Exercise Tips

Keeping a Basset Hound clean is essential, especially due to their long, droopy ears. These ears can accumulate dirt and moisture, making them susceptible to infections.

It's important to check and clean their ears regularly with an appropriate product, as well as brush their coat once a week to reduce shedding and keep their fur healthy.
Basset Hounds need moderate exercise to stay healthy and avoid weight gain. While they are not the most active dogs, they still require daily walks to explore and sniff around.

Calm strolls are ideal, as they allow them to enjoy the environment without becoming overly tired. A proper exercise routine helps keep your furry friend happy and active.
Training a Basset Hound can be challenging due to their stubborn nature. They can easily get distracted, so it's crucial to use positive reinforcement training methods, such as rewards and praise.

Consistency and patience are key, as these dogs respond better to gentle approaches. With time and dedication, you will be able to teach commands and good manners to your Basset.

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